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We remember the 3,000 Americans who were murdered in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks -- men, women, and children. More than 6,000 others were injured. Today, Christians are under attack by evil terrorists. These groups may call themselves Al-Qaeda, ISIS, the Al-Nusra Front, Boko Haram or other names. They are the same. Despite persecution and suffering, Christians have won the final victory over evil through our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Our Saviour reassured us, “Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested. . . . Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10-11) Our Lord comforted us, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) We pray, Father, for persecuted Christians, and that You would make us ever mindful of our brothers and sisters who need us to stand with them as they suffer in Your name. Teach us what it means to overcome by the blood of the Lamb, through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Pastor Tom Steers, Christ the Saviour Lutheran Church